I'll make late decision on whether to start Bale against Barcelona, claims Real boss Ancelotti

Carlo Ancelotti is undecided on whether Gareth Bale will start El Clasico this weekend, but has said the Welshman is ready.

The Italian, speaking at Real Madrid's press conference this afternoon, said any decision on Bale will made after training tonight. It's Real's final session before they face Barcelona at Camp Nou on Saturday evening.

Ancelotti said 'If they put the press conference after training, I could tell you better if Bale would start.'

Ready for action: Bale has told Ancelotti he is ready to start for Real Madrid

Pretty in pink: Real coach Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Bale (above) is ready to start

Money matters: The world's two most expensive players Bale (left) and Ronaldo (right) could be on show

Late decision: Ancelotti watches on as he considers whether to start Bale for the big one

Training day: Real Madrid players are put through their paces ahead of the showdown with Barcelona

Up in arms: Xabi Alonso (left) and Isco (right) share a joke during training

After being further pressed on the issue, Ancelotti said that Bale is ready 'It is true he has not had an easy time, but he has worked hard, and used international break to improve his fitness'

'In my opinion, and his opinion also, he is ready to play from the beginning'

Bale's career at Real hasn't got off to the best of starts, with injury hindering his settling in at the Spanish club. Overall the Welshman has played just 178 minutes across 5 incomplete games, scoring 1 goal.